Mr McDonald said: "I understand many local adults with autism
struggle profoundly with their condition every day, with limited
prospects of diagnosis or support in their local area.

"NHS Grampian has dispensed with the services of an expert
diagnostician expert. Autism is a complex condition, and concerns have
been raised that this decision may result in increased difficulties for
some adults to gain access to a diagnosis and post-diagnostic support
services."

'Best supported'

An NHS Grampian spokesman said: "Not all people with autism have a mental illness.

"Those who do will continue to be assessed and treated through their Community Mental Health Team.

"People with autism but no diagnosis of mental illness are
best supported through mainstream services and are referred to the local
authority."

He added: "We have in the past used the independent sector
for the diagnosis of autism, but it is the view of our clinicians that
these assessments can be carried out in-house.

"There are a small number of clients whose care is very
complex and they will continue to receive support from the independent
provider."